UKHRUL: Several organizations, including the United Naga Council (UNC), the Foothills Naga Coordination Committee (FNCC), and the Indigenous People’s Forum Manipur (IPFM), have condemned the recent attack on TM Kasom along National Highway 202 in Ukhrul District, which resulted in the deaths of two civilians. In response to the attack, these organizations have outlined several demands.
In its condemnation statement, the UNC described the attack as an ambush directly targeting the Naga people and stated that such unprovoked violence is unacceptable. The organizations have demanded that the case be transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for swift identification, arrest, and prosecution of the culprits to ensure immediate justice. They have also called for decisive action from law enforcement agencies and governmental authorities to prevent future incidents on NH-202 and other vulnerable routes. Additionally, they seek guaranteed security for Naga citizens and all travelers.
Furthermore, the council questioned the inactivity of the security forces assigned to the area, noting that the incident occurred just 1.5 kilometers from an Indian Army outpost. They labeled the security management by both state and central governments regarding NH-202 as questionable and deplorable.
The UNC has urged all Naga tribes, villages, and organizations to maintain unity and solidarity during this challenging time, standing together as one people. “In the face of external aggression directed at our community, the Council affirms the right of the Naga people to defend themselves and protect their homes and lives,” it stated, emphasizing that the attack was not an isolated event but a direct challenge to the collective security and dignity of the Naga people. The UNC expressed condolences to the families of the victims while mourning the loss of two lives. “The Council will continue to pursue justice and calls on every Naga to remain steadfast in defense of our land and people,” it added.
The Foothills Naga Coordinating Committee, in condemning the incident, demanded the immediate deployment of Manipur state forces rather than central security forces. They urged state authorities to take prompt, decisive action to identify, apprehend, and bring the perpetrators to justice. Additionally, they appealed to all Nagas to stay united, ensuring that the sacrifices of their people are remembered and that justice prevails.
The Indigenous People’s Forum Manipur also expressed deep concern, stating that this tragic incident highlights a serious failure of the governmental machinery. The IPFM emphasized that the primary responsibility of any government is to protect its citizens and held the Manipur government accountable for the significant security lapse and ongoing inability to curb militant violence. “The repeated killings of innocent people cannot and must not be tolerated any longer,” it stated.